After interviewing a second-year university of Bristol student called Alice, I have investigated how rising tuition prices are affecting students. She reveals that although at the present time money isn’t an issue which concerns her or affects her mental health, the impending debt which is ever growing for post-graduates will likely become a concern in the future. The increasingly negative economic situation for students' post-graduation can put more stress on university not financially but in terms of success. Alice suggests the need for success in your degree and to be able to use it to achieve a good career to justify the finances adds a lot more pressure. The increasing tuition fees, which as a result will increase the debt for students, may put off students and potential applicants. Notably, Alice’s tuition has already risen from her first to second year.
For some, this increase in cost might not be something they are willing to take on financially. With more careers not requiring a degree and the limited job prospects for many, the worth of university is becoming more questioned. “The increasing costs take away the appeal,” Alice says; apprenticeship and alternative courses are becoming options which can seem perhaps more appealing. She suggests that certain degrees are more necessary than others for careers and in many cases apprenticeships in which you get paid, gain valuable work experience and don’t find yourself in a vast amount of debt could generally be more worthwhile than university for some. However the experience is “very important and is good to do,” she says, in spite of the financial issues you will be faced with later in life. It is a crucial part of character development for many and allows students to gain independence and confidence, something which might not be as easily obtained when in other forms of education or careers.
The unique experience university offers contributes largely to its appeal for many, but the rising tuition costs do hinder how impactful the prospect of the experience may be for those looking to apply. Going to university for the sake of going is no longer an option for most; the future and job prospects now have to be considered before applying. Furthermore, with rising tuition prices for some going to university may be financially improbable. These factors result in some people becoming unable to gain the valuable experience and enriching education. Ultimately, with rising tuition fees the choice to attend university is becoming more about practicality and financial possibility, rather than aspirations and enjoyment. This has and is leaving many students and potential applicants to consider its worth.